This study aims to determine whether Angiotensin IV (Ang IV) addition to Celsior preservation solution could improve hepatic endothelium function and provide better liver protection during subnormothermic machine preservation (SMP).

Two experimental models were used: In the first part of the study, rings isolated from rat hepatic artery were preserved in Celsior solution (6 h, 20 °C) with and without Ang IV (10⁻⁹ M), then, endothelium–dependent relaxation (EDR) and the concentration of acetylcholine inducing half-maximal relaxation of pre-contracted rings (EC50) were measured. Also, in order to investigate the implication of nitric oxide (NO) on EDR, the rings of hepatic artery were incubated with L-NG-nitroarginine metyl ester (L-NAME). In the second part of the study, rat livers were subjected to SMP with oxygenated Celsior solution (6 h, 20 °C), supplemented or not with Ang IV (10⁻⁹ M) and then perfused (2 h, 37 °C) with Krebs Henseleit solution.

We found that Ang IV supplementation to Celsior solution decreased EC50 value and improved EDR of hepatic artery rings, 6h after sub-normothermic preservation. Interestingly, Ang IV amplified the vessel relaxation in a NO-dependent manner. Moreover, liver SMP with Ang IV reduced oxidative stress and cell injury and improved organ function. Ang IV activated pAkt, increased eNOS protein level and decreased apoptosis in the preserved liver grafts.

In conclusion, we showed that the use of Ang IV in Celsior solution for sub-normothermic graft preservation insured a better NO-dependent relaxation and improved liver functional recovery.